Description
This protein-packed twist on a classic comfort food swaps heavy ricotta for creamy, high-quality cottage cheese, resulting in a tangy and satisfying dish. Lean ground beef and robust marinara provide a savory foundation, while fresh spinach adds an earthy nutritional boost. Perfectly structured to ensure clean, beautiful slices every time, this lasagna is an ideal wholesome meal for busy weeknights or relaxed family gatherings.
Ingredients
1 lb lean ground beef
24 oz high-quality marinara sauce
16 oz cottage cheese (full-fat or 2%)
1 egg, lightly beaten
10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
12 lasagna sheets (no-boil or pre-boiled)
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet, brown the ground beef until fully cooked and drain any excess fat.
In a bowl, combine the cottage cheese, beaten egg, Italian seasoning, and squeezed spinach.
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Place a layer of lasagna sheets over the sauce.
Spread half of the cottage cheese mixture over the pasta, followed by a layer of beef, marinara, and a sprinkle of mozzarella.
Repeat the layers once more, ending with a final layer of pasta topped with the remaining sauce and the rest of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden.
Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to ensure clean slices.
Notes
Ensure the spinach is squeezed very dry to avoid a watery lasagna. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 25
- Cook Time: 45
- Category: High Protein Dinners
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg